Perspective, 1) n, A view or vista, 2) n, A mental view or outlook
As I look back on the years I see things with a clarity that didn’t exist at the time I experienced things. I don’t think that is anything deep or original; but it is true.
I also don’t know if that perspective has changed my memories. I might be seeing things differently than they really were when they happened. Our minds are like that. Our most indelible memories are the ones that have strong emotions attached to them. So it is possible that my emotions are warping my memories.
But I don’t think it matters. Because we really don’t see things clearly anyway. It is like a mystery movie. The first time you see it you miss all kinds of clues. This is the way it should be or otherwise the movie won’t be as much fun. The second and third time you see it you notice all the clues. Your knowledge of how the thing turns out changes what you notice and remember.
Knowing the outcome changes your perception of the events that led to that outcome. This has a deeper consequence for all of us. People who are happy will see many more happy memories. People who are angry will see everything in terms of their hurt and pain.
I choose to be happy; and my life is filled with happy memories!
Photo: Colombia River overlook, Canon Elan 7e, Kodak Txi-X black and white film, Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 lens
